Family Dinners Make a Resurgence Amid Lockdowns

Due to the pandemic, many people are cooking homemade meals because sit-down restaurants are shut, and the only other option is takeout or drive throughs.

However, there is some joy coming out of the pandemic, such as the resurgence of family dinners, lunches and breakfasts. Many Americans are usually busy at school, work, appointments, and do not have the time to have a sit-down meal. However, when the whole family is home, they can sit down during meals and bond by talking about their lives and day.

As The New York Times food editor Sam Sifton explained, “A lot of us are really experiencing the joys of eating together with family regularly.”

He goes on to say, “For me, it’s been kind of joyful amid all the sorrow.”

Sifton believes that gathering with friends and family for a meal is spiritually and psychologically nourishing. It can be hard to find joy during these stressful times, amongst a pandemic. However, gathering with the family for a half hour or so and talking and smiling about other things can be beneficial.

Sifton said that “If you gather regularly, you’ll see a change in your relationship to both cooking and people.”

Dr. Ted Baehr notes in CULTURE WISE FAMILY that “time with your children, especially family dinners, is the primary and most important step toward teaching them media-wisdom.”

Food can be used to unite people, and it is always more enjoyable to see a dish you worked hard on be enjoyed by the ones you love.

Although right now we can’t have large gatherings with our loved ones, we can be hopeful for the time when we will.

Life can be stressful and discouraging during this pandemic. However, we can look forward to cooking and enjoying homemade meals with our families. There is always a light at the end of the tunnel!